Studies on vesical schistosomiasis in Northern Abia state, Nigeria

Abstract

A study was conducted between February and November 2002 to determine the prevalence and intensity of vesical schistosomiasis in Ohafia area of Abia State, Nigeria. A total of 2112 urine samples were collected from children and adult of both sexes aged between 6 and 60 yrs in 10 communities during the survey. Overall prevalence of 30.1% was recorded for vesical schistosomiasis in the study with prevalence varying significantly among villages surveyed (p<0.05). More males (34.5%) than females (24.7%) had S. haematobium ova and hematuria was observed in 58.3% of the infected subjects. Subjects in 11-20 years age group showed higher infection rate (48.3%) then the other age groups as infection among the age groups showed statistical difference (p<0.05). Even though infection prevalence varied among various occupational groups there was no statistical difference (p<0.05). Bulinus globosus is implicated as the intermediate host. Control of vesical schistosomiasis in the area is suggested.

International Journal of Natural and Applied Sciences Vol. 2 (4) 2006: pp. 345-349